Auto Consumer Index

1. Definition and Functional Positioning

The Auto Consumer Index (ACI) is a comprehensive benchmark compiled and published by the China Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), capturing automotive market trends directly from the consumer perspective. Taking July 2016 as its base period (base value 100), the index monitors the full car-buying journey—from initial purchase intent and online vehicle research through to showroom delivery and final vehicle purchase—selecting representative leading indicators to construct a composite index.

Its primary value lies in addressing an industry gap historically dominated by manufacturer-side production statistics, serving as an early indicator to forecast upcoming vehicle sales momentum. An index reading above 100 signifies stronger consumer demand compared to the base period, pointing to a bullish sales outlook ahead, whereas a reading below 100 signals subdued market demand.

2. Component Sub-indices

The Auto Consumer Index comprises three core sub-indices, each tracking a distinct stage across the vehicle retail chain:

Together, these three sub-indices capture the end-to-end consumer conversion funnel from "intent to buy" and "showroom walk-ins" through to "final purchase."

3. Recent Trends and Market Interpretation

In July 2026, the Auto Consumer Index stood at 76.5, recording a slight month-on-month uptick. While July and August are traditionally off-peak sales months impacted by sweltering heat and heavy rainfall, summer demand provided a steady buffer. A concentrated release of buying activity—driven by fresh graduates purchasing cars, pre-semester vehicle upgrades, and summer road trips—helped narrow the typical seasonal sales deficit.

Historical data shows that the index reached 81.0 in May 2026, marking a relatively high level for the year, following a reading of 73.4 in February 2025 and a rebound to around 74.0 in March. These index movements reflect the combined impact of policy cycles (the introduction and tapering of trade-in subsidies), seasonal factors (Chinese New Year, motor shows, mid-year sales pushes), and aggressive showroom promotional campaigns.

4. Customer Satisfaction and Consumer Preferences

Alongside the consumer index, the China Automobile Customer Satisfaction Index (CACSI) for ICE Vehicles serves as another vital benchmark for the automotive retail sector. The 2025 assessment revealed that customer satisfaction for ICE vehicles stood at 81 points (out of 100), matching the previous year and sustaining an all-time high. The customer complaint rate dropped to 9%, while brand loyalty reached 79 points, with both metrics posting decade-best results.

In terms of consumer preferences, "strong performance", "high quality and reliability", and "superior comfort" remained the top three purchase drivers. Notably, the emphasis on "high quality and reliability" saw a marked increase, climbing from third place in 2024 to second in 2025. The importance placed on dependable after-sales service has climbed for three consecutive years, whereas brand prestige has declined in weighting over the same timeframe, demonstrating that car buyers are shifting focus from brand cachet toward tangible product build quality and ownership experience.

5. Index Compilation Notes

The Auto Consumer Index is compiled by the "China Automotive Industry Index Research Taskforce" under CADA, comprising a dedicated research panel and an operational working group. The research panel is led by the Industry Coordinated Development Working Committee, while the working group coordinates with dealership groups and showroom branch managers nationwide to facilitate data gathering and practical application. Data sources integrate online consumer engagement metrics with offline dealership retail operations. Processed through statistical predictive models, the index is distinguished by its comprehensive scope, novel perspective, full-funnel tracking, industry authority, and reliable leading indicators.